Drivers encouraged to remain cautious during hazardous road conditions

FRANFORT, Ky. – Hazardous travel conditions continue to impact Kentucky, including flooding and an expected winter weather system forecasted to arrive Tuesday night.

According to the Kentucky Transportation Cabinet, Gov. Andy Beshear is asking drivers to use safe practices if they must travel while transportation crews work to keep the roads clear during anticipated weather.

“If you can’t turn your heat on by this afternoon, you need to call a family member or friend and go stay with them. If that option isn’t available, please go to an emergency shelter,” Beshear said. “The temperatures are dropping dangerously low, and we need to do everything possible to keep our neighbors safe.”

KYTC shared the National Weather Service is expecting several inches of snow across the Commonwealth through Wednesday.

Officials say lows in the teens, then single-digit temperatures will lessen the effectiveness of salt and other materials to prevent icing.

“Kentuckians’ safety is our top priority,” KYTC secretary Jim Gray said. “While snowplow crews will respond in force, we’re concerned these low temperatures will render treatments far less effective, and some roads could remain snow-covered for several days.”

Drivers should avoid travel if possible to allow crews to have space to work. If you can’t avoid travel, officials are reminding drivers that flooded roads will impact snowplow routes, and they should pack an emergency kit and drive slowly.

Flooded roads may freeze and become covered by snow. Drivers should not travel past barricades or road closed signs, and they should never drive through high water.

More than 250 state highways are blocked by high water, rockslides or mudslides, officials say. District 3 road impacts can be viewed here.

To follow the latest forecast, download the WNKY News 40 Weather App. Kentuckians can also keep up with travel conditions online at GoKy.Ky.gov.